REVIEW: NOT DROWNING, WAVING AND GEORGE TELEK’S TABARAN

Released in 1990, Tabaran by Not Drowning, Waving (NDW) and George Telek remains a landmark collaboration that melds atmospheric world music with the rich cultural heritage of Papua New Guinea (PNG). NDW, renowned for their textured, evocative style, revisited this extraordinary partnership in a celebratory concert marking the album’s enduring legacy, PNG’s independence, and the ongoing conversation between two intertwined cultures.

Now 65 years old, George Telek, the celebrated PNG songman, took the stage in traditional dress, a striking figure embodying the heart of the music. One might have expected him to feel out of place fronting a rock band, but he seemed entirely at home, seamlessly blending his cultural roots with NDW’s lush arrangements. Telek’s presence and voice, rich and resonant, carried the show with grace and charisma, bridging the past and present.

The setlist featured Tabaran in its entirety, a journey through rock, pop, atmospheric soundscapes, and traditional PNG music forms. The result was both a celebration and a reflection, capturing moments of joy, solemnity, and cultural fusion. At times, the music carried serious undertones, acknowledging the weight of PNG’s colonial history and the struggle for independence. In other moments, the mood lightened, such as when percussionist Pius Wasi jokingly declared a “PNG-style disco,” delighting the audience.

A standout element of the performance was the extraordinary rhythmic power brought by four percussionists—Emmanuel Hakalitz, Ben Hakalitz, Russell Bradley, and Pius Wasi. Together, they infused the music with a dynamic pulse, blending modern percussion with the Garamut (a traditional horizontal drum) and the whistle flute, creating a vibrant foundation for the songs.

David Bridie, NDW’s frontman, shared a poignant story from the original Tabaran tour 25 years ago. He spoke of how these songs resonated deeply with PNG immigrants in Australia, transporting them back home through George Telek’s evocative singing. This emotional connection underscored the universal themes of belonging, identity, and cultural exchange woven into the album.

The concert closed with a breathtaking a cappella performance, as George dedicated the song to uniting two cultures. “One song, one soul,” he declared—a fitting end to a show that honored the shared history and future of PNG and Australia.

Not Drowning, Waving and George Telek’s Tabaran remains a timeless work that celebrates the beauty of collaboration. It’s a testament to what can be achieved when two worlds come together to learn, share, and create something greater than the sum of their parts. This performance not only revisited a seminal album but reaffirmed its significance as a cultural and musical bridge.

NDW and Tabaran Performers

George Telek

Russel Bradley

David Bridie

Ben Hakalitz

Emmanuel Hakalitz

Alice Hurwood

Rowan McKinnon

Danielle Morgan

John Phillips

Pius Wasi

 

Brett Doig – Sound

Eneti Waretini – Visuals

24 Jan 2025

City Recital Hall

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